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- Tasks: Join our Merchandising Graduate Programme and shape how we source and deliver food products.
- Company: Sysco GB, a global leader in foodservice wholesale distribution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, CIPS qualification support, and discounted staff sales.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the food industry while kickstarting your career.
- Qualifications: 2:2 or above Bachelor's degree and a passion for food.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with mentorship, networking, and clear career progression.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Welcome to the Sysco GB Buying + Category Management (Merchandising) Graduate Programme! At Sysco, food is at the centre of everything we do. As a global leader in foodservice wholesale distribution, we operate with over 76,000 colleagues across 10 countries worldwide. Driven by our purpose to connect the world to share food and care for one another, we’re proud to supply the expertise, products and partnerships that power every corner of the industry - from independent high street cafes to large‑scale corporate customers, and from hospitals and schools to pubs, restaurants and fine dining establishments across the UK.
Our Merchandising Graduate Programme is your opportunity to help shape how we source, select and deliver the food products that chefs and caterers rely on every day, while building your career in a fast‑paced, commercially driven environment. Join us and play a part in bringing exceptional food to the tables and communities we serve. You’ll gain hands‑on experience across the full procurement lifecycle, working directly with expert buyers and category managers, often face‑to‑face with our suppliers.
This is a role for straight talkers: people who can build strong relationships, have honest conversations, and negotiate confidently to get deals over the line. You’ll be managing competing priorities and real commercial pressures, developing the judgement and interpersonal skills needed to balance value, quality, service and customer needs. We’re looking for curious minds and strategic thinkers who enjoy solving problems through data, partnerships, and smart, decisive action. If you’re ready to unlock your potential, influence outcomes, and help deliver the products that power our customers’ success, this is the place for you. Your journey starts here - let’s make it extraordinary.
The Sysco GB Graduate Programme is designed to give you a dynamic and inspiring start to your career. You’ll gain hands‑on experience, take part in structured learning, and receive personalised mentorship to help you transition into the workplace and develop the skills and confidence needed to grow as a future leader. Through key business rotations, you’ll work on real projects, collaborate with a variety of teams, and gain valuable exposure to senior leaders.
You can expect:
- A structured learning and development plan
- Mentorship from experienced professionals
- Business placements
- Networking opportunities
- Continued professional development
- Exposure to senior leaders
- Clear opportunities for career progression
What You’ll Experience:
As part of Sysco’s Merchandising Graduate Programme, you’ll begin your journey with an introduction into Sysco GB, Merchandising and the functions we collaborate with, helping you understand how each function works, how they connect to Merchandising, and the day‑to‑day challenges they navigate. You’ll rotate through two key placements each time supporting a different key category area, taking responsibility for one of the product categories in that area and learning how to conduct all procurement & category activities to develop the hierarchy and contribute towards business objectives.
You’ll be gaining experience in:
- Full negotiation process – From planning through to execution
- Supplier sourcing and relationship management
- Pricing and cost optimisation
- Communication & Presentations
- Total end‑to‑end category ownership
You’ll also be fully supported to complete your CIPS qualification (optional) as well as additional training in process improvement and negotiation. This is your chance to make an impact, learn from industry experts, and kick start your career towards becoming a Procurement or Category Manager within one of our teams.
Key Info:
- This programme is based at our head office in Ashford, Kent
- Placement rotations will be a combination of fully onsite and hybrid working models
- 39hrs a week, Monday – Friday
- Some travel required (includes graduate workshops, Merchandising or business events)
What you’ll need to succeed:
- A minimum of a 2:2 or above Bachelors degree (or equivalent)
- Strong interest in pursuing a career in Merchandising/Procurement
- Genuine passion for food
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment & independently
- Analytical and problem‑solving abilities
- Proactive, adaptable, and eager to learn
- Initiative and a growth mindset
The Application Process:
If you’re interested in joining us – apply now! Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and if you meet our entry criteria you’ll be asked to complete a short online assessment. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a strengths‑based video interview. If successful at this stage, the final step will be an invite to join us onsite for an interview/assessment exercise. Support and guidance will be provided throughout the process and further information about each step can be found here.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Support to undertake your CIPS Professional qualification (optional)
- Pension + life assurance
- Heavily discounted staff sales on Sysco products
- Cashback/discount platform
- Enhanced family friendly policies
- Volunteering hours
Additional Information:
At Sysco GB everyone is welcome. We don’t want you to ‘fit our culture’ we want you to help define it and we actively celebrate the unique talents of each and every colleague. We don’t just look at your CV, we’re more focused on who you are and your potential. As part of our values, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone has a voice, is appreciated and has the same opportunities. We work hard to ensure that everyone feels part of our business, as we care for one another and connect the world through food and trusted partnerships. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone belongs and thrives at Sysco GB and we recognise that Sysco GB can only thrive when everyone feels they belong. We’ll do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, speak to our resourcing team who will be happy to support you.
Procurement Graduate employer: Sysco
Contact Detail:
Sysco Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Graduate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Sysco or those in the procurement field on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. Building connections can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that video interview! Research common questions for procurement roles and practice your answers. Make sure to highlight your problem-solving skills and passion for food – it’s all about showing how you fit into Sysco's culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your analytical side! Be ready to discuss how you've used data to solve problems in the past. Sysco loves strategic thinkers, so come armed with examples that demonstrate your ability to make smart decisions under pressure.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, keep an eye on our social media for updates and tips on the recruitment process – we’re here to help you succeed!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Graduate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your passion for food and why you're excited about the Procurement Graduate role.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Highlight your analytical abilities and any relevant teamwork experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate your ability to convey ideas clearly. Whether it’s through your writing style or how you present your experiences, make it engaging and easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the process and what to expect next.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sysco
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Sysco's values and mission. Understand their role in foodservice wholesale distribution and how they connect with customers. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and the procurement field.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your analytical and problem-solving abilities. Think of situations where you've successfully negotiated or collaborated in a team. Highlighting these experiences will show that you have the skills needed for the Merchandising Graduate Programme.
✨Ask Smart Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask insightful questions about the programme and the company. Inquire about the challenges faced in procurement or how they measure success in category management. This shows your curiosity and strategic thinking, which are key traits they’re looking for.
✨Be Yourself
Sysco values authenticity, so be honest and let your personality shine through. Share your passion for food and your eagerness to learn. Remember, they want to see who you are beyond your CV, so don’t hold back on expressing your unique perspective.